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The goods: After watching a state-best string of 18 consecutive playoff
appearances end in 2012, DeSales is determined to rebound. The Stallions have some experienced,
talented players returning on defense, led by first-team all-district choice Kanu (five
interceptions) and Saunders, a Bowling Green recruit. Developing depth on the offensive line and
adjusting to a new system will be keys to the team’s success.

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The goods: In Puthoff, a Kent State recruit, and Heil, a second-team all-district
choice mulling several offers, the Cardinals have impressive bookends to build around. Heil
recorded 53 pancakes in 2012. Bailey started 12 games the past two seasons. The defense has only
four starters returning, but they were productive: Hale, a second-team all-district choice headed
to Bowling Green (66 tackles), Quinn (120 tackles),. Klingler (51/2 sacks) and Deak (38 tackles,
three sacks).

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The goods: Having qualified for the playoffs in 18 of the past 21 seasons,
Watterson, in theory, should have an easier playoff road now that it has dropped to Division IV.
Getting there, however, is not a given considering its brutal schedule. The Eagles return 13
starters. Green (754 yards, eight TDs) heads a deep, experienced backfield. Calhoun (51 tackles),
Bogue (59 tackles) and Fada (46 tackles, seven sacks) and Urquhart (43 tackles, three
interceptions) are defensive holdovers.

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The goods: Hartley, which has won 37 games in the past three seasons, graduated
some prolific players to the Division I college ranks, but shed no tears for Burchfield. First-team
all-Ohioan Morris (13 minus-yardage tackles, 11 hurries) has committed to Kent State and Saxton to
Duke. Brandewie (1,071 yards, 15 TDs passing) is a third-year starter. The Hawks are experienced
along the lines. Burchfield expects big things from RB-LB Cavell Bennett (5-11, 185, jr.). Hartley
faces a brutal schedule.

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The goods: Ready has the framework for an outstanding team. A first-team all-Ohio
choice and Virginia Tech recruit, Brady Taylor is a beast on both sides of the ball. Elusive Akili
Taylor (1,125 yards, 10 TDs rushing) and Yoho (1,085 yards, 13 TDs) complement one another in a
balanced offense. Culbertson had nine interceptions. The Silver Knights are solid on special teams.
Cutler’s biggest concern is guarding against overconfidence.